The open floor plan houses a marble-clad open kitchen and two fireplaces, as well as exterior access on two sides.

The open floor plan houses a marble-clad open kitchen and two fireplaces, as well as exterior access on two sides.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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The parlor — a nod to the home’s Italianate Victorian heritage — hosts a gas fireplace.

The parlor — a nod to the home’s Italianate Victorian heritage — hosts a gas fireplace.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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Both the architectural staircase and an elevator connect all four levels of the reimagined Italianate Victorian.

Both the architectural staircase and an elevator connect all four levels of the reimagined Italianate Victorian.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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A grand soaking tubs pairs with high-end tile in this spa bathroom.

A grand soaking tubs pairs with high-end tile in this spa bathroom.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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The roof deck overlooks other luxury homes in the Mission District.

The roof deck overlooks other luxury homes in the Mission District.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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Skylights within the vaulted ceiling brighten the top level.

Skylights within the vaulted ceiling brighten the top level.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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Downtown San Francisco is visible from the top level's office area.

Downtown San Francisco is visible from the top level's office area.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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A bedroom rounds out the top floor.

A bedroom rounds out the top floor.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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The top level accesses the rooftop deck and includes a full bathroom.

The top level accesses the rooftop deck and includes a full bathroom.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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The roof deck affords sweeping views.

The roof deck affords sweeping views.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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The lower level accesses the garage and includes a third master suite.

The lower level accesses the garage and includes a third master suite.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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This bedroom opens to the landscaped backyard.

This bedroom opens to the landscaped backyard.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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Tall wood walls lend privacy to a landscaped backyard that includes a tile patio and built-in planter boxes.

Tall wood walls lend privacy to a landscaped backyard that includes a tile patio and built-in planter boxes.

Photo: Brian McCloud

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Elegant Mission District Victorian transformed into contemporary

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Sometimes it’s a good thing they don’t build them like they used to. Consider 837 S. Van Ness Ave. in the revitalized Mission District, where a dated interior had ceded to the expectations of 21st century living.

“The home has been transformed into a contemporary that is elegant, fresh and fun,” said Rusty Wadatz of Sotheby’s International Realty, who is listing the Italianate Victorian row house for $3.995 million.

Exacting standards coupled with untold hours of labor allowed this four-story to reach its full potential. Three of the four levels enjoy an outdoor area, while an elevator accesses all floors. The spacious garage provides room for parking multiple vehicles and general storage. A front patio overlooks bustling South Van Ness Avenue as a landscaped rear yard revels in privacy provided by tall fences.

“The backyard is a tranquil green escape from the throes of urbanity,” Wadatz said.

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Italianate Victorians are known for grand embellishments that, although fashionable at the time, aren’t always practical for modern living. In the case of 837 S. Van Ness Ave., designers poured significant thought into the update, especially in regard to the functionality and livability.

“Careful attention has been paid to every detail to make this home both comfortable and luxurious,” Wadatz said.

The facade retains Victorian mainstays like corbels, pedimented windows and doors, angled bay window, and a low-pitched hip roof. The interior, however, eschews the traditional ceiling medallions and compartmentalized floor plan in favor of an open design accented by clean lines. Striking tile work adorns walls in the kitchens and bathrooms. These eye-catching inclusions demonstrate the home still exudes class and sophistication.

A metallic pedestrian gate off South Van Ness Avenue opens to an exterior staircase leading to the front door. Tile designed in a concentric diamond pattern hints at the designer tile finishes peppered throughout the residence.

Once inside, the full-scale modernization becomes readily apparent. Pristine hardwood lines the floors as glass railings line the architectural staircase.

Polished hardware finishes built-in cabinetry in the kitchen and dining area, offering timeless elegance to an inviting environment. An open kitchen anchors the palatial great room. Stainless steel and wood-paneled appliances outfit the luxurious setting finished with marble counters and ample seating. The tile backsplash above one of the kitchen’s two sinks wraps around elevated cabinetry and stretches to the raised ceiling.

Two contemporary pendant lights linger above a breakfast bar that easily accommodates seating for four. Gas fireplaces bookend the great room. The first, located near the bay windows overlooking Van Ness Avenue, is set withing a navy-hued surround stretching from floor to ceiling. A second raised fireplace warms the family area and is found beside the open kitchen’s bar area.

The home provides several ideal exterior spaces. An open-air patio off the great room overlooks the street, while the third level houses a wraparound deck a master suite accesses on two sides. A deck on the top floor crowns the revitalized property. Though counted as an office, the room attached to the deck includes a closet and is serviced by the elevator. This thoughtful design and location down the hall from a full bathroom sets it up as a welcoming bedroom or media room.

Of the four listed bedrooms, three boast spa-quality en suite bathrooms. The garage level has the first such bedroom, an irregularly shaped space with an angular interior to its spacious closet.

The other two bedroom suites dominate the third level. The suite directly behind the front facade receives some extra space thanks to the bay windows, while the suite on the opposite side of the home includes the sprawling wraparound deck. A long hallway separates the two bedrooms from one another, ensuring everyone has their space and privacy.

Features: This fully revitalized Italianate Victorian retains hints of period charm while fully committing itself to 21st century living. A plethora of outdoor spaces await both in the front and behind the four-story, four-bedroom that includes an elevator, roof terrace, three master suites and a lavish open kitchen equipped with premier appliances.